Species · GBIF taxon 5178595
European Green Crab
Carcinus maenasAlso known as Shore Crab, Green Shore Crab, European Shore Crab
European green crabs are highly adaptable, aggressive shore crabs distinguished by five distinct spines on each side of their eyes and three rounded lobes between them. They are notorious global invaders, outcompeting native crabs and destroying eelgrass beds as they dig for food. Their color varies from dark green to orange or red on their undersides, often indicating how recently they have molted.
InvasiveMarineAggressive
Licensed reference(c) Sandy Rae, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
- diet
- Carnivorous scavenger, feeding on clams, oysters, mussels, small fish, and other crabs.
- family
- Carcinidae
- threats
- Few threats in invaded ranges; native populations face coastal development and pollution.
- life Span
- Up to 5 to 7 years
LC
Possesses strong claws capable of delivering a painful pinch; handle with care.
Equipped with powerful, sharp claws used for crushing shells, which can deliver a painful pinch to human fingers.
Pick up the crab from the rear of its carapace, keeping your fingers well away from the reach of its claws.- Count the spines: Identify them by counting the five distinct spines on either side of the eyes.
- Report sightings: Document and report any sightings in invaded regions to local wildlife authorities.
- Handle with care: Hold them firmly from the back of the shell to avoid their quick, sharp claws.